Ballymena shines in Channel 5’s Murder Most Puzzling with Phyllis Logan

A captivating new crime drama, Murder Most Puzzling, is set to premiere on Channel 5 this Thursday, June 19, at 8pm, offering viewers across the United Kingdom a thrilling blend of mystery, eccentric characters, and familiar Northern Irish landscapes.

Filmed on location, mostly in Ballymena, and with additional scenes in Lisburn, the six-part series stars BAFTA award-winning actress Phyllis Logan, best known for her role as Mrs Hughes in Downton Abbey, and promises to keep audiences guessing with its clever plot and picturesque settings.

Based on the best-selling novels by American author Parnell Hall, Murder Most Puzzling introduces viewers to Cora Felton, the enigmatic Puzzle Lady, played by Logan.

The story unfolds in the fictional sleepy market town of Bakerbury, where a bizarre murder disrupts the peace, leaving local police stumped by a crossword puzzle found on the victim’s body. Desperate for answers, DCI Hooper reluctantly enlists the help of Cora, a recent arrival whose reputation as a puzzle-solving expert precedes her.

However, Cora is not entirely what she seems, and as she dives into the investigation, she attracts both allies and enemies in the tight-knit community.

The series, produced by Factual Fiction and December Films with support from Northern Ireland Screen, seemingly set in the Yorkshire Dales was filmed earlier this year in Ballymena and Lisburn, showcasing the region’s charm and character. Crews made full use of the atmospheric scenery.

"We used some countryside which could be anywhere," Phyllis reveals, "But it was lovely filming there. It's a great place, and we had a great time."

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For lead actress Phyllis Logan, the production held personal significance, as her ancestors hail from Ballymena. The choice of location has added an authentic backdrop to the drama, with local landmarks and scenery expected to resonate with Northern Irish viewers.

"We filmed in a place outside Belfast called Ballymena," Phyllis recalls, "It's where my maternal grandparents were born. They left to go to Scotland."

Co-star Adam Best, who plays lead detective DCI Hooper, was ready to aid her in a personal quest. "He said he'd drive around the area to see if we could find out more about my grandparents," shares Phyllis, "But we never really got the chance to do it."

Emily Dalton, Managing Director and Executive Producer at Factual Fiction, praised the project and its star, saying:

“With Cora Felton, Dominique Moloney has written a character that leaps off the page and we are so happy that the wonderful Phylis Logan will bring The Puzzle Lady to life. This will be my fifth project in Northern Ireland, working with some of the best crew in the UK – it feels a bit like coming home.”

Speaking to Love Ballymena, Dalton expressed her excitement for the premiere, stating:

“We are excited for Murder Most Puzzling airing tomorrow night at 8pm on Channel 5! I wanted to let the lovely folk of Ballymena know. We had a great shoot there and the locations shine. Thanks for having us!”

The production marks another milestone for Northern Ireland’s growing reputation as a hub for high-quality television, following in the footsteps of series like Line of Duty and Derry Girls. The involvement of Northern Ireland Screen underscores the region’s commitment to fostering creative industries, with Murder Most Puzzling highlighting local talent and stunning landscapes.

For fans of crime dramas, Murder Most Puzzling offers a fresh take on the genre, combining intricate plotting with a charismatic lead in Cora Felton. Logan’s portrayal of the quirky yet sharp-witted Puzzle Lady is expected to be a standout, drawing on her extensive experience in both television and theatre.

The series’ premise, rooted in Hall’s popular novels, promises a mix of suspense, humour, and small-town intrigue, appealing to viewers who enjoy shows like Midsomer Murders or Death in Paradise.

The series is poised to be a highlight of Channel 5’s 2025 lineup, offering a compelling story that keeps audiences engaged across its six hour-long episodes.

Murder Most Puzzling airs on Channel 5 at 8pm on Thursday, June 19.

Don’t miss the chance to see Phyllis Logan unravel a mystery against the stunning backdrop of Northern Ireland.